Navigating the Distance: Creative Ways to Stay Connected
When my long-term partner received news that he’d be relocating to Morristown, New Jersey, I knew we’d have to get creative to maintain our connection. As we’re based on opposite sides of the Atlantic, frequent visits weren’t a viable option. Instead, I set out to find affordable ways to stay in touch and make the distance more manageable.
Staying on the Same Page
To keep track of time apart, I started sending daily emails with the title “Ohai bby X,” where X represents the number of days since his departure. These emails often include a roundup of my day, an ugly selfie, or a humorous meme. This ritual has become a personal challenge to brighten his day, and it’s allowed us to stay connected despite the time difference.
Expanding My Social Circle
I’ve also turned to Meetup groups to meet new people who share similar interests. This platform has been instrumental in helping me discover like-minded individuals and engage in activities I enjoy, such as beginners’ acting, life drawing, and outdoor yoga. Who knew I’d find joy in masochistic outdoor activities in Ireland’s September weather?
Rekindling Our Competitive Spirit
One of our favorite pastimes is playing Magic The Gathering together. This shared hobby has allowed us to stay connected and engage in some friendly competition over Skype. The interactive nature of the game has helped bridge the distance, and we’re both looking forward to our next virtual showdown.
Snapshots of Love
In an effort to stay visually connected, I’ve turned to Snapchat filters. These daily glimpses into each other’s lives have become a reassuring ritual, even if it’s just for a few seconds. Seeing my partner’s face, whether he’s sporting a giant strawberry hat or dancing hot dog filter, brings a smile to my face.
Beating Boredom
The most daunting aspect of our separation was the potential for boredom. However, by incorporating these creative strategies into our daily routine, we’ve managed to stay connected and engaged despite the distance. As we navigate the first part of our 52-week separation, I’m confident that these habits will continue to bring us closer together without breaking the bank.
Maria Keenan is a 24-year-old Marketing Manager for an Event Software Company based in Dublin, Ireland. You can find more of her writing on her company blog, and connect with her on Twitter.
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